Jeff Kennett breaks silence on shocking Hawthorn racism claims

Hawthorn president Jeff Kennett has broken his silence on a report which has revealed shocking claims of racism at the club.

In a message to members last night, Mr Kennett said it would be “an understatement to say we were horrified at the stories of three of the Hawks past players and partners”.

Jeff Kennett says if the claims are true- they’ve been subjected to “horrific and unacceptable behaviors”.

“Of course, our first concern is the welfare of the families who have made the claims and we are doing all we can to work with them. We are also concerned about the individuals and families who have been publicly named,” he said.

It’s understood the Aboriginal players involved do want to tell their stories, but wish to do so at an independent hearing, not one overseen by the AFL.

The AFL is set to announce a four-person panel to investigate the claims.

The coaches at the centre of the allegations, Alastair Clarkson and Chris Fagan, have strongly denied any wrong doing.

Read Jeff Kennett’s full statement to members HERE.

(Image: Photo by Michael Dodge/Getty Images)